Why do we call it the Sitka Sound Extravaganza?
September 12, 2024
By Captain Harley Ethelbah
The commercial Sitka Sound herring fishery has always been a significant event in Southeast Alaska for many reasons other than fishing! This is a very unique opportunity to witness an abundance of humpback whales, bubble-net feeding, eagles, otters, sea lions, and many different species of birds, all feeding on the herring and spawning. This commercial fisheries focus is on the herring roe, which is sought after by many species in the marine environment.
The Sitka Sound herring fishery takes place in March and April every year in the sound of Sitka, Alaska. Sitka is a small island located in Southeast Alaska, also known as the Inside Passage. There is a population of approximately 8,426 people in the small town of Sitka. Sitka heavily relies on the seafood industry. Fishing and processing of salmon, cod, halibut, herring, and other marine products are significant contributors to the local economy as well as tourism.
The arrival of the herring in Sitka Sound is like the announcement of Spring! Winter is still trying to hold on, but Spring pushes through, and the weather changes. When that weather changes, the herring will arrive and be ready to spawn between mid-March and the first part of April.
I was an active commercial herring sac roe fisherman for many years and was formerly the owner of the M/V Jean C. I share my experience in the fishery with our guests aboard the M/V Northern Song as they watch the season transition. The herring are caught by seining with a net, as pictured below.
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The commercial fishing boats seining for herring with Mount Edgecumbe in the background
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Mount Edgecumbe is also a gorgeous landmark and a dormant stratovolcano located on Kruzof Island, Alaska, about 15 miles west of Sitka and 3,201 feet in elevation. A popular hiking trail leads to the summit, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area after the snow melts.
Another reason why this time of the year is so special for this yacht cruise is the humpback whales are migrating from Hawaii☀️ and come to fatten up after a long winter of mating. The famous humpback whale bubble-net feeding is a regular event!
Travelers often wonder what bubble-net feeding is and what I am referring to is how humpback whales coordinate through song and the act of blowing bubbles to form underwater “bubble nets” to capture one of their food source herring.
A view from the bow of the MV Northern Song with bubble-net feeding
Concentrations of humpback whales are observed and predator activity from eagles and sea lions builds. The herring spawn will soon emerge, when the temperatures are just right turning the water into a milky turquoise green as the spawn permeates the seas!
Thousands of bald eagles show up to eat the herring row as they wash up on the beaches around the sound.
After the herring event, the grey whales show up to wallow in the mud and shift through the substrate for herring eggs. Grey whales can be up to 49 feet long and 90,000 pounds in weight. They are known to be a more playful with their tale slapping and spy hopping, so they are fun to observe. They are not bubble-feeders; they are bottom feeders. They stir up sediment with their lower jaws, filtering through the ocean floor.
Humans are not the only ones interested in herring. In fact, humans are the most minor prey on this precious natural resource, herring. The herring roe plays a significant role in both the natural and the culinary human ecosystem. Its unique texture and flavor make it a sought-after delicacy in certain cultures. The primary harvest is for the sac roe, which is obtained from female herring during this event.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game monitors the fishery through aerial surveys, vessel sonar surveys, and test fishing. They also coordinate with industry vessels to conduct test fishing as necessary to determine the herring size and roe quality. They will then work with the fisherman on the appropriate fishing time and areas. This is all monitored in the efforts to complete sustainable fishing practices.
Guests aboard the M/V Northern Song photograph all the fisherman in Sitka Sound
Captain Harley with Herring Roe on the Beach
At Alaska Sea Adventures we take a different perspective to experience this annual event, which is why we call it the Sitka Sound Herring Extravaganza, a unique Alaskan yacht cruise! We go to observe the whale behaviors, capture stunning photos of the bubble-net feeding, witness all the wildlife feed, and observing the fisherman as they pull in their seine nets full of herring. I talk about the history and evolution of the fishery, take our travelers to speak to the fisherman, and get an up-close experience of the boats leaning over with a huge net full! This has always been my favorite fishery and favorite time of the year! Our guests also love seeing all the bald eagles as they feed on the herring and get down close to the water to get those perfect shots!
Photo by Andy Wolcott
We also get to experience other exciting highlight of the area, Goddard Hot Springs. Goddard Hot Springs is a popular destination! It’s known for its natural mineral hot springs, which are some of the oldest in the state. We get to relax in the hot tubs, surrounded by scenic wilderness and beautiful views.
Experience Spring in Southeast Alaska for the annual Sitka Sound Herring Extravaganza! It is truly an amazing event, and a multi-day, all-inclusive yacht cruise is the perfect way to experience it!
